What to Do After a Car Accident

The days after a car accident can be an emotional time for injured victims. This is especially true if you have mounting medical bills, have lost time from work, and have property damage to repair. Taking the right steps after a collision can help you protect your rights and recover fair compensation from a claim or lawsuit.

Assess the Situation

When a car accident occurs, remain calm and assess your situation. Check to see if you or any passengers have been injured in the crash. Check to see if you or any passengers have been injured in the crash. If anyone has a serious injury, then you should immediately call emergency services. Next, you should evaluate the safety of the accident scene. If you are able to move your vehicle to the side of the road, you should do so to avoid further incidents. Turn on your hazard lights and use warning triangles or flares if available to alert other drivers to your vehicle’s position on the road.

Exchange Information

Once the safety of everyone involved in the accident is ensured, gather relevant information at the accident scene. Document the location, time, and date of the crash. Exchange your contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Photograph the scene and the surrounding area if it contributed to the accident. This may include road conditions, traffic signs, or weather conditions. You should also take pictures of any injuries or damage to your vehicle.

File a Police Report

Depending on the state, you may be required to report your car accident to the police. It may be required if anyone involved was seriously injured, there was significant property damage, or there is a dispute over who is the responsible party. Filing a police report provides an official record of the accident, which can be used with the insurance company or if you need to pursue legal action.
Contact the local law enforcement agency to see if officers will arrive at the scene or if you will need to file a report at the nearest police station. Provide accurate details about the car accident, including information about any injuries, and any witness accounts. Request a copy of the police report once it has been filed. This report can be used to help determine fault in your claim or lawsuit.

Seek Medical Attention

You should always seek medical attention after an accident, even if you do not feel inured. Some injuries may not present immediate symptoms, such as head injuries or internal trauma, but can lead to serious or fatal consequences if left untreated.
Delaying medical treatment may hurt your injury claim as well as your health. Your healthcare professional will diagnose and treat any hidden injuries and provide documentation that will link your injuries to the car accident.

Consult With an Attorney

Insurance claims and legal proceedings can be overwhelming, especially if you are recovering from an injury. An experienced car accident lawyer can guide and support you through the process. Your lawyer will help you understand your rights, outline your legal options, and negotiate a settlement with the insurance company.
During your initial consultation, your lawyer will review the details of your case, help determine all responsible parties involved, and explain what types of damages can be included in your claim. An experienced car accident lawyer will also help you gather any additional evidence you may need to support your case.

Keep Records

After your car accident, keep all related documentation and correspondence from the insurance company, medical records, and receipts related to your accident. These records will be used as evidence to support your claim for compensation.
Start by organizing all documents related to the accident, including:

1. Police Report: This document contains crucial information about the circumstances of the collision and can serve as official documentation of the incident.
2. Medical Records: Keep records of all medical treatment you receive for injuries sustained in the accident. This includes hospital bills, doctor's notes, diagnostic test results, and receipts for medications or medical supplies.
3. Correspondence With Insurance Companies: Save all emails, letters, and phone call logs with the insurance adjuster. Keep copies of any offers, denials, or requests for information regarding your claim.
4. Vehicle Repair Estimates: Request written estimates for repairing damage to your vehicle. Keep receipts for any repairs or replacement parts.
5. Lost Wages Documentation: If your injuries prevent you from working, keep records of the days you miss work and any income you lose as a result. Include pay stubs, timesheets, or letters from your employer verifying your lost wages.
6. Other Expenses: Keep track of any other expenses incurred as a result of the accident, this can include rental car fees, transportation costs to medical appointments, or home care services.

These documents will be used to demonstrate and calculate the extent of your losses after your car accident. If your injuries impact your ability to return to work in your previous capacity, your lawyer will also use this documentation to calculate your future lost wages to include in your auto accident case.